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What size valve is a Ford FE?

The Ford FE engine, produced from 1958 to 1976, used valves with a standard size of 1.78 inches (45.2 mm) in diameter for both the intake and exhaust valves. This valve size was consistent across the various FE engine models, including the 352, 360, 390, 406, 410, and 428 cubic inch displacement (CID) variants.


Understanding the Ford FE Engine


The Ford FE engine was a large-displacement V8 engine used in a variety of Ford and Lincoln vehicles during the 1960s and early 1970s. It was known for its robust construction and high-performance capabilities, making it a popular choice for muscle cars, trucks, and heavy-duty applications.


The FE engine family was characterized by its distinctive valve train design, which featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) configuration. This design allowed for larger valves compared to the previous Ford Y-block engines, contributing to the FE's impressive power output.


Valve Size Specifications


The standard valve size for the Ford FE engine was 1.78 inches (45.2 mm) in diameter for both the intake and exhaust valves. This valve size was consistent across the various FE engine models, regardless of the specific displacement or other technical specifications.


The large valve size was a key factor in the FE engine's performance capabilities, as it allowed for improved airflow and increased volumetric efficiency. This, in turn, contributed to the engine's ability to produce high horsepower and torque outputs.


Importance of Valve Size



  • Larger valves allow for increased airflow, which improves engine efficiency and power output.

  • The 1.78-inch valve size was a significant upgrade from the previous Ford Y-block engines, which typically had smaller valves.

  • The consistent valve size across the FE engine family simplified maintenance and replacement parts availability.

  • The robust valve train design of the FE engine made it well-suited for high-performance applications and modifications.


The 1.78-inch valve size was a key feature of the Ford FE engine, contributing to its impressive performance and enduring popularity among enthusiasts and builders. This standardized valve size was a hallmark of the FE engine's design and engineering, helping to make it a legendary powerplant in the history of Ford's V8 engines.

What size is the FE motor?


Description

DisplacementTypeStroke+/-0.004
332 cu in (5.4 L)FE3.3 in (83.8 mm)
352 cu in (5.8 L)3.5 in (88.9 mm)
359 cu in (5.9 L)FT
360 cu in (5.9 L)FE



What is the minimum valve clearance?


What is the minimum recommended clearance?

IntakeExhaust
0.080 in.0.100 in.



What is the valve clearance of a Ford?


So just set your valve clearance to 0.015 and you will have a good running, quiet engine. Sure every valve will have a different lift, duration and valve timing but it will be minor and the engine will run well.



What does 427 FE mean?


FE stands for Ford Edsel. It's a series of skirted block engines produced from 1958 to 1976, with a 10.17” deck height and 4.630” bore centers. Displacements were 332, 352, 360, 361 (really an Edsel version 360), 390, 406, 410, 427, and 428 cubic inches.



What is the difference between a 406 and a 427 Ford?


Though mid-year 406s and all 427s were cross-bolted main blocks, both were different castings entirely. In fact, the 427 block is a completely different animal because it sports huge 4.23-inch bores, unlike any of its FE siblings, using the 390 and 406's 3.78-inch stroke.



How do I know what size valve I need?


A general practice to determine the correct valve size is to use the equation Q = Cv√(ΔP/G), where Q is the capacity in gallons per minute, Cv is the valve flow coefficient, ΔP is the pressure differential in pound per square inch, and G is the specific gravity of the fluid.



What is the standard car valve size?


There are basically two sizes of tyre valves in use; 8v1 and 12v1. A 8v1 Tyre Valve is the standard Schrader car tyre valve size found on the majority of tyre valves. The nominal bore on a 8v1 Tyre Valve Connector approximately 8mm in diameter.



What is the correct valve clearance?


Opinions may vary between piston and valve manufacturers, but a popular consensus is a minimum clearance of . 080-inch for the intake and . 100-inch for the exhaust. The exhaust valve expands more due to heat from combustion, and therefore needs additional clearance.



What size is engine intake valve?


Size Range of Engine Valves

Size in mmSize in mm
Stem DiaFrom 5.00to 13.00
Head DiaFrom 20.00to 60.00
Overall LengthFrom 60.00to 225.00



How much horsepower did the Ford 406 have?


385 hp
There were 3 variations. Single 4 barrel, 11.4 to 1 compression, 385 hp.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.